Research Final 2
Research Final 2
Research Final 2
A RESEARCH PROPOSAL
Presented to:
MAY 2023
CHAPTER I
INTRODUCTION
Agriculture is the backbone of most economies in the world, providing food and raw
materials for the sustenance of human life. However, despite their vital role in the country's
prosperity, filipino farmers remain one of our society's poorest and marginalized groups. The high
input costs that our country's agriculture sector faces are a major issue. Agriculture requires a wide
range of activities. Many of them are performed by heavy machinery that is both expensive and
inaccessible to small- scale farmers. (Patel & Ahuja, 2020)
As a result, many Filipino farmers are being compelled to put in more effort because they are
unable to enhance their production, which also has had often led to substantial crop wastage. Due to
government demands and transactions, the prices of some of the foods they produce have suddenly
increased. We have dedicated ourselves to creating multipurpose and less pricey agricultural
equipment that can be used for small and medium-scale crop farming using scientific methods and
accessible technologies. Agricultural robotics' goal is to increase the profitability and efficiency of the
sector's procedures. (Habacon, 2021)
The proposed solution entails the development of an agricultural machine specifically
designed to ingest wasted crops and employ a controlled fermentation process to convert them into a
nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer. The robot would be equipped with advanced algorithms enabling
efficient identification and collection of discarded crops from fields. Subsequently, the crops would
undergo a meticulously monitored fermentation process within the robot, lasting several days.
Throughout this period, the machine’s algorithm would continually monitor and optimize the
conditions to facilitate optimal breakdown of organic matter and nutrient release. Following the
fermentation process, the machine would distribute the resulting liquid fertilizer directly onto the
crops, thereby providing essential nutrients and promoting their growth. This sustainable approach
would contribute to environmental conservation by minimizing waste generation and reducing
reliance on chemical fertilizers. (Ku, 2022)
1.3 HYPOTHESIS
The innovative autonomous fermentobot irrigation system is not effective in finding the specific
terminals. It has faced some difficulties in terms of its functionality and overall performance.
1.4 SCOPE AND LIMITATION
ISAIS will assist farmers in terms of easy and simple cultivation of crops. Also, by utilizing our
system, the process of nurturing crops will become less hectic, as well as, reducing farmers' reliance
on an ever- changing and diminishing supply of labor. Not only that but by reducing the amount of
crop wastage, the robot would enhance the productivity, efficiency and profitability of farmers,
thereby bolstering the agricultural sector. The liquid fertilizer produced from the fermentation of
wasted crops would nourish and augment the growth of crops, resulting in improved agricultural
yields. Furthermore, ISAIS can assist farmers in reducing pesticide and chemical fertilizer use, which
is beneficial to the environment and human health.
High cost: Agricultural machines are expensive, and their high cost can be a major barrier to
their adoption.
Limited adaptability: Agricultural machines are designed for specific tasks, and they may
not be able to adapt to changing weather conditions, soil types, or other factors that can
affect crop growth.
Limited functionality: Agricultural machines are limited in their functionality and they may
not be able to perform all the tasks that are required in agriculture.
Safety concerns: Agricultural machines may pose safety concerns, particularly when
working in close proximity to humans or animals.
Increased efficiency: Agricultural machines are designed to save time, as well as, boost
utilization by automating repetitive tasks such as planting, watering, and harvesting crops.
This means farmers can produce more food with less labor, which is especially important in
areas where farm labor is scarce.
Cost savings: By automating certain tasks, farmers can save on labor costs and reduce waste,
which translates to significant cost savings. Besides that, robots can assist farmers in making
better use of resources such as water and fertilizer, which can result in cost savings.
Improved crop quality: By reducing waste and converting wasted crops into fertilizers, the
machine can help to improve soil health, increase crop yields, and reduce the need for
chemical fertilizers. This can contribute to more sustainable agricultural practices and reduced
environmental impact.
Increased safety: Some agricultural tacks, such as working with heavy machinery or
applying chemical fertilizers, can be hazardous to humans. Farmers can improve safety and
minimize the likelihood of incidents by using robots to perform these tasks.
Sustainability: By using machines to automate tasks, farmers can reduce their environmental
impact by using resources more efficiently and reducing waste. Moreover, robots can help to
reduce the use of environmentally hazardous fertilizers.
Agriculture. The practice of cultivating land, raising animals, and producing food, fiber, and
other products for human consumption and use. (Curtis, Shaw & Preuschen, 2023)
In this study, "agriculture" refers to the cultivation of crops, livestock, and other agricultural products
for human consumption, industrial use, or export.
Chemical Fertilizers. Synthetic fertilizers that are composed of nitrogen, phosphorus, and
potassium. They are commonly used to increase crop yields but can have negative impacts on
soil health and water quality. (Naher & Panhwar, 2019)
In this study, we will use the term "chemical fertilizers" to refer to synthetic fertilizers that are
commonly used in conventional agricultural practices. We will examine the potential of solar
agricultural technology machines to reduce the need for chemical fertilizers by producing fertilizers
from wasted crops. The aim is to promote sustainable agricultural practices that reduce reliance on
chemical fertilizers, which can have negative impacts on soil health and the environment.
Cultivation. The loosening and breaking up of the soil or, more generally, the raising of
crops. (Britannica, 2023)
In this study, the researchers used cultivation in terms of nurturing the crops with the use of ISAIS.
Efficiency. Efficiency refers to the ability to perform a task with minimum waste or effort. By
adding automated planting and farming to a tractor, it can improve its efficiency by reducing
the need for manual labor and increasing the accuracy and precision of tasks such as planting
and harvesting. (Javaid et al., 2022)
In this study, efficiency can be defined as the ratio of output to input, where the output is the amount of
work done by the ISAIS, and the input is the energy supplied to the machine. Overall, the study will use
energy efficiency as a key indicator of the feasibility and effectiveness of the ISAIS machine in
promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Scientific Method. The technique used in construction and testing of a scientific hypothesis.
(Britannica, 2023)
In this study, the researchers used scientific methods as a way to create ISAIS together with the
accessible technology we have nowadays.
Sprinkler. A device with a lot of small holes that you put on the end of a hose in order to
water plants. (Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary, 2023)
In this study, the researchers used sprinklers as a tool to assist farmers with crop cultivation in hopes
of reducing the farmers’ workload.
Sustainable Agriculture. A farming system that promotes the use of natural resources in a
way that is ecologically sound, socially just, and economically viable. It emphasizes the
conservation of soil, water, and biodiversity, and the reduction of pollution and waste.
(Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education Program, 2023)
In this study, sustainable agriculture refers to a system of farming practices that prioritize
environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Specifically, it involves practices that maintain
soil health, conserve water resources, reduce the use of chemical inputs, and promote biodiversity.
CHAPTER II
REVIEW RELATED LITERATURE
In the process of exploration, we discover new methods, acquire new information, and
sometimes even create novel materials, tools, processes, or approaches. The research is concerned
with the demands of man for a better, fuller life, including products, innovative materials, and services.
The end-user of these represented in the form are products of the technological environment—society
as a whole. Today's rapidly expanding trend and innovation in technologies have prompted
researchers to conduct studies on fast food chain advertisements to encourage the use of their products
and contemporary technologies in all facets of daily life.
The objective of agricultural robotics is to help the sector in its efficiency and in the
profitability of the processes. In other words, mobile robotics works in the agricultural sector to
improve productivity, specialization, and environmental sustainability (Robotniks, 2022). In particular,
agricultural robotics can spray pesticides just on the plants that require them. This is just one
illustration of how industries with historically low levels of automation might reap very real benefits.
Currently, a considerable number of agricultural operations are already being done autonomously.
Automating agriculture has become a pressing issue and a rapidly growing area of interest
for countries worldwide. With the global population increasing at a rapid pace, the demand for food
has also escalated significantly. The traditional farming methods used by farmers are not adequate
enough to meet this demand, which has resulted in an increase in the use of harmful pesticides,
ultimately damaging the soil. This practice has significantly impacted agriculture, and the result is
unproductive land with reduced fertility (Shad et al., 2019). The emergence of agriculture marked a
crucial turning point in human history, as it allowed humans to manipulate the environment and
produce sufficient food to sustain the rapid growth of the population. This was the first significant
change in the relationship between fully-modern humans and the environment. The development of
agriculture acted as a catalyst for other advancements, including the use of fire, prepared food, and
automated machinery. Farm automation, also referred to as "smart farming," is a technology that
enhances the efficiency of farming operations and automates the production cycle of crops or
livestock. Farm automation technology is a response to major challenges such as a rapidly growing
global population, a shortage of farm labor, and shifting consumer preferences (Ku, 2022).
A more accurate and effective ant colony algorithm for plant protection robots has been
proposed, with the aim of increasing the dependability and accuracy of path planning. Several
advanced technologies have been applied to crop protection robots, such as the ant colony algorithm,
trajectory method, and optimized robot systems. For the agricultural development of crop planting in
western China, a region characterized by fragmentary cropland. (Ma et al. 2023)
The primary objective of developing countries is to attain a high-income status, which can
be achieved through agriculture. In addition to ensuring food security and enhancing nutrition,
agriculture plays a crucial role in transforming economies. Agricultural modernization is critical to
this transformation as it enhances labor productivity, increases agricultural surplus, and generates
capital through exports. It also contributes to humanitarian goals by increasing the incomes and
productivity of poor farmers, reducing food prices, and improving nutrition. Agricultural development
is vital to the process of economic development, as it is the primary engine that kick-starts the process
of structural transformation (Lin, 2018). The provision of food and nutrition security and the
availability of raw materials for industrialization are crucial aspects that serve as the foundation for
societal progress (Capistrano, 2017).
With the increasing pace of technological progress, the agricultural sector has been slow to
adopt technological innovations. Although agriculture remains the backbone of the global economy, it
has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a lack of knowledge about crop cycles,
pricing, and seasonal variations. However, the emergence of agriculture analytics has made it possible
to collect and analyze vast amounts of crucial data at a low cost. This development can enable farmers
to make better-informed decisions, potentially leading to greater productivity and efficiency in their
field operations (Pawar, 2020).
This paper shows the design of an innovative autonomous fermentobot irrigation system
having a power supply unit as the central processor of the machine. The presented methodology
contains ISAIS' research design, components, and its development establishing data gathering
procedures.
The research design aims to develop a machine that converts wasted crops into fertilizers
using fermentation and incorporates a sprinkler system. An innovative autonomous fermentobot
irrigation system has been designed to ease the burden our farmers are facing and to determine how
human control can be removed from irrigation to reduce the workload of our farmers. To comprehend
the design and construction of soil amendment irrigation systems, this study used quali-quantitative
experimental research design.
The study will begin with a thorough literature review to understand existing crop waste
fermentation techniques, fertilizer production methods, and sprinkler systems for nutrient distribution.
Based on this knowledge, a machine will be designed, considering factors such as fermentation
chamber size, nutrient recovery system, sprinkler system design, control and monitoring mechanisms,
and material selection. The machine will be built and tested for its ability to efficiently convert crop
waste into high-quality fertilizers, while the sprinkler system will be evaluated for uniform nutrient
distribution. The research will also assess the environmental and economic benefits of utilizing the
machine.
The methodological framework in which this research is based can be summarized through
the chart-flow presented.
The proposed methodological framework for selecting autonomous fermentobot irrigation system
components is consists of three steps:
1. Careful selection of robot component alternatives that are both cost-effective and eco-friendly.
2. Researching the component's durability and longevity.
3. Examining the component's availability in the targeted area.
STEP BY STEP:
1. Prepare the base. Cut the plywood to the desired size and shape for the base of the robot.
This will provide a stable platform for the other components.
2. Add the perforated metal sheets. Tightly secure it onto the base using screws.
3. Install the electric motor. Mount the electric motor onto the plywood base using screws.
Make sure the motor is securely attached and is in the central location of the base.
4. Add the castor wheels. Attach the tires to the sides of the plywood base using screws. These
will allow the robot to move around the field.
5. Install the container. Place the container onto the plywood base and secure it using screws.
6. Divide the container into three parts/levels. The first part is where the water will be
contained, the second part is where the grinding process will be, and finally, the third part is
where the mixing and fermentation process will take place.
7. Secure the first part (water storage). Ensure that there aren't any holes so that there won’t
be any leakage. However, make a hole at the bottom side for the pipe, as we will connect it to
the third part of the container (mixer).
8. Make the second part (grinder). Install the bearing onto the middle of the saw blade and
place it at the center portion of the second part of the container. Ensure that it is placed
securely so the grinding process will be a success. Make an opening at the bottom — it will
automatically open once the grinding process is done and transport the product onto the last
part of the container (mixer).
9. Make the third/last part (mixer). This is where the finished product from the grinding will
be placed afterwards. Connect the pipes we placed in the first part earlier (refer to step 6).
Ensure that the pipe isn’t broken to avoid any leakage. The water will automatically then
enter after all the grinded crops have been placed and the mixing process will start. After the
water and grinded crops are mixed, they will stay in the mixer part for a period of time for the
fermentation to happen.
10. Install the filters and screen. Using screws, place it inside the third part of the container
(mixer) to ensure that there won’t be any impurities contained in our fertilizer.
11. Install the sprinkler heads. Make sure that it is secured — you can try and shake it around a
little to test out its adherence.
12. Install the pipes for the mixer part. And then connect it to the sprinkler heads. This is
where the fertilizer will pass through once it’s done and make its way to the sprinkler head.
13. Add the battery. Install the battery onto the plywood base.
14. Add the inverter. Carefully place it onto the base. This will be the source of power/energy of
the robot.
15. Install the control panel. Attach the control panel to the top of the plywood base using
screws. This will provide a centralized location for the control components of the robot.
16. Install the Arduino Uno. Mount the Arduino Uno onto the control panel using screws. This
will serve as the brain of the robot, controlling the various components.
17. Add the sensor. Install the sensor onto the control panel and connect it to the Arduino Uno
using jumper wires.
18. Add the switch. Install the switch onto the control panel and connect it to the Arduino Uno
using jumper wires. This will allow you to manually turn the robot on and off.
19. Add the LED lights. Mount the LED lights onto the sprinkler head using screws. This will
provide illumination during low light situations.
20. Connect all of the electronic components. Connect the various electronic components to the
Arduino Uno using jumper wires. This includes the electric motor, sensor, switch, inverter,
and LED lights.
21. Test the robot. Turn on the switch and test the robot to ensure it is working properly. Adjust
the settings as needed.
Some possible statistical tools that may be used for data analysis in this research include:
Descriptive Statistics: Are commonly used to calculate, describe and summarize the
collected research data using the mean, standard deviation, and frequency distributions. In an
innovative autonomous irrigator, it can be used to analyze historical weather data to identify
the most common weather conditions in the area, which can be used to design the irrigation
system’s algorithms to optimize water usage and ensure the system is responsive to changes
in weather conditions. Additionally, descriptive statistics can be used to evaluate the
effectiveness of the irrigation system by analyzing data on water usage, plant growth, and
other factors to determine if the system is achieving its goals or if any adjustments need to be
made and identify patterns that can be used to improve the system’s performance.
Analysis of variance (ANOVA): ANOVA can be applied to analyze data related to the
fertilizer production process and the performance of the sprinkler system. For example,
ANOVA can be used to assess the impact of different fermentation parameters (e.g.,
temperature, pH) on the nutrient content of the converted fertilizers. It can also be employed
to determine if there are significant differences in the nutrient distribution patterns achieved
by the sprinkler system across various experimental conditions or crop types. By conducting
ANOVA, researchers can identify significant variations in the data and understand the effects
of different factors on the machine's performance. This statistical tool helps in drawing
conclusions, making comparisons, and identifying areas for improvement or optimization in
the design and operation of the machine.
Machine Learning Algorithms: The digital world has a wealth of data in this day and age,
such as Internet of Things (IoT) data, cybersecurity data, mobile data, and so on. Knowledge
of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly machine learning (ML), is necessary to intelligently
analyze these data and develop the corresponding smart and automated applications. In an
innovative autonomous irrigator, it can be used to identify patterns and trends in the data, as
well as, guide ongoing improvements and adjustments to the sprinkler system.
Geographic Information System (GIS): Is a computer system that analyzes and displays
information that is geographically referenced. It makes use of data that is linked to a specific
location. This could prove useful in carrying out this research study as in an innovative
autonomous fermentobot irrigation system, it can be used to gather and analyze data on the
physical and environmental characteristics of the area where the sprinkler system will be
deployed including data on topography, soil type, vegetation, and climate patterns. This data
can be used to optimize the system's algorithms and ensure that it is designed to be responsive
to the specific needs of the area and identify where adjustments need to be made. Furthermore,
GIS can be used to model different scenarios and evaluate the potential impact of different
environmental factors on the performance of the sprinkler system.
Data Visualization: Focuses on the data rather than the design. The goal of data visualization
is to objectively convey data to the viewer for interpretation and analysis. In an innovative
autonomous fermentobot irrigation system, it can be used to create visual representations of
the system's algorithms and performance. This information can be used to help users
understand how the system is designed to work and identify areas where adjustments need to
be made. Also, data visualization can be used to create interactive dashboards and other tools
that allow users to monitor the system's performance in real-time and make adjustments as
needed.
By using these statistical tools for data analysis in an innovative autonomous fermentobot
irrigation system, researchers can acquire vital insights into how the system is operating and make
informed judgments about how to enhance its performance to reach the intended results.
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This chapter presents the analysis and interpretation of the data collected from the research study
focusing on the effectiveness of an agricultural robot designed to convert wasted crops into nutrient-rich
liquid fertilizer. The collected data, gathered through various methods, have been carefully examined and
organized in tabular format. The analysis aims to evaluate the performance of the agricultural robot in
terms of effectively crushing the vegetable material, initiating the fermentation process, and distributing
the resulting liquid fertilizer onto the crops. The findings contribute to sustainable farming practices and
highlight the potential benefits of utilizing this technology in agriculture.
Table 1: Performance Assessment of Agricultural Robot for Wasted Crop Conversion into Nutrient-
Rich Liquid Fertilizer
Duration of
Trial Fermentation (Days) Result Observations/Notes
The robot successfully
crushed the vegetable and
1 1 Worked initiated the fermentation
process. The button was
pressed, and the resulting
liquid fertilizer was
distributed onto the crops.
The agricultural robot, equipped with advanced AI algorithms, successfully crushed the
vegetable material and initiated the fermentation process in all three trials. The resulting liquid fertilizer
was effectively distributed onto the crops upon activation of the robot.
In Trial 1, the initial one-day fermentation process demonstrated the robot's capability to break
down organic matter and convert it into liquid fertilizer. The vegetable material was efficiently crushed,
providing an optimal starting point for the fermentation process. The robot's AI algorithms effectively
monitored and adjusted the conditions, leading to successful nutrient release and the distribution of the
resulting liquid fertilizer onto the crops.
In Trial 2 and Trial 3, the one-day fermentation process was repeated, and the robot consistently
exhibited its functionality. The vegetable material was crushed effectively, and the robot maintained
optimal conditions throughout the fermentation period. This ensured efficient breakdown of organic
matter and nutrient release. The resulting liquid fertilizers were successfully distributed onto the crops,
indicating the robot's reliability in converting wasted crops into nutrient-rich resources.
These findings highlight the potential of the agricultural robot in promoting sustainable farming
practices. By efficiently converting wasted crops into nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer, the robot reduces
waste generation and decreases reliance on chemical fertilizers. The consistent performance across
multiple trials indicates the robot's effectiveness in facilitating the controlled fermentation process and
providing essential nutrients to support crop growth.
Further analysis should involve comprehensive assessments of crop responses and nutrient
analysis of the liquid fertilizers produced during each trial. By evaluating the growth, health, and overall
performance of the crops, researchers can gain insights into the effectiveness of the robot in promoting
crop development and productivity.